Changes Made to Structure of Limerick District League

There will be a familiar look to the Limerick District League Premier Division this season with the likes of Pike Rovers, Janesboro and Regional United expected to compete at the top end of the table. However, the Limerick District League Committee have decided to change the structure of the division ahead of the kick-off in just over a month’s time.

In the upcoming 2019/2020 season, there will be 12 teams competing in the Premier Division once again. However, unlike years gone by, when all 12 teams would face each other on two occasions both at home and away, this season sees a change.

All 12 teams will compete against all opposition teams for the first round of games and will then split into two six team divisions based on the amount of points accumulated from the first round of games; the top 6 and bottom 6 on points total. For example, those in the top six will play their other five top half rivals on two occasions, home and away and will compete for the league title. The bottom six will also face off against their five mini-league rivals in a bid to avoid relegation.

Also, in a hugely debated move, the team which finishes top of the “bottom 6” section will receive a trophy which is the equivalent of the team which finished in 7th position in the old league structure being rewarded for the achievement. All teams in the league will play 21 games this season.

Also, there are name changes to all divisions with the old Division 1A now being called Premier A. The LDLC felt that the facilities of all clubs competing in 1A were of good quality and hence the upgrade. As a result, the old Division 4 is no longer there and the Division 3B is the lowest in Limerick junior soccer this season. Although the names of the lower divisions have been altered, unlike the Premier Division, the structure will remain the same with all teams playing one another home and away.

The LDLC chairman for the new season is Christy O’Dwyer and the treasurer will be appointed in the coming weeks following the sad death of long-time servant Pat Cotter.